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Borrego Springs, CA

Wednesday, February 6, 2013

I’m pooped!

It was my first day back to work today, and even though it was just a half day it wore me out.  Most of the volunteers were gone today on a field trip to a big camellia garden quite a drive away.  I opted out of that outing because of all of the hours sitting in the van to get there and back.  They all left at 7:00 this morning and still aren’t home.

Instead, since I was about the only one left around, I agreed to lead bird tours for an Audubon group from Venice, FL.  There were about 48 people in the group so we divided them into two groups.  While one group was taking the boat tour, I led the other group down Swamp Island Drive to try to see the red-cockaded woodpecker.  This included a couple of short hikes, but alas the birds were all in hiding today. 

I’ve never seen so few birds when I’ve been out on the drive.  We had a good time for both tours, though, and I filled in the time with the natural history of the woodpecker and tales about the refuge in general.  When I lead tours like this, I can’t bring my camera along so no pictures tonight. 

Each tour was an hour and a half long, and I was about done in by the end of the day.  It did feel good to get back into the swing of things though, and I’m glad I only have to work half days this week and next.  The hip held up well to the hiking, so I sure got my exercise for the day.

Tomorrow, is my last meeting with the physical therapist so I’ll be ‘graduating’ from that particular experience before I head off to work the VC.  Short post tonight, but it is what it is.

Thanks for stopping by… talk to you later,  Judy

30 comments:

  1. It seems like it takes along time to get back all your strength after going through something like this. When I had my last surgery I thought I felt fine until I got up and started doing things then wow I wore out fast. You are zooming right along, I don't expect you to take too long.

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  2. You are doing awesome!! I bet it did feel good to be back in the wild. You will be getting stronger every day.... just don't over do! You have come a long way baby!!

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  3. That sounds like a big day for your first time out. Just all the talking and answering questions can wear you out, not to mention all the standing you did. It takes a lot of energy to hike after you have been through major surgery.

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  4. Awesome is right. Your physical therapist is probably having a hard time keeping up with you.

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  5. After the hiking you could probably use a masseur!

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  6. I bet it felt good to be out and about, Hope you didn't overdo it

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  7. You are doing great and its expected to be tired out on your first day back. It's amazing to me that you can be out and about so soon after the surgery.

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  8. Sounds like you had a real successful test of the new hip! No doubt the therapist will sign you off on the next visit:)

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  9. I'm thinking their will be studies on your recovery program. Just amazing, who cares that there weren't many birds out, you were and that's just GREAT!

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  10. Judy we are all inspired by your recovery and determination. Rest while you can. I'm sure you will find plenty to keep yourself occupied.

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  11. Amazing that they would leave you to lead hikes! Of course, you could probably out-hike me. :)

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  12. Glad to hear you did so well today. Maybe tomorrow will be a little easier. Not to push to much at the first days back.

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  13. Wow, back to work already, ur an inspiration for sure. I know the folks enjoyed ur tour tho. Hope u get lots of rest when ur off and continue with that fantastic recovery!

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  14. Keep it up sissa! You are doing great.

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  15. Your day sounds pretty busy to me.... you sure are recovering fast. Those birds should have been out there waiting on you.

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  16. Good on you. You are the poster child for the healing power of hard work, positive thought, and trust in your doctors and therapists. Owning a cute dog helps as well of course!

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  17. Glad your getting back in the swing of things. Bummer that the woodpeckers were not cooperative on your return.

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  18. In search of the red-cockaded on your first day ... nice goal to have on your first day at work; sorry it didn't cooperate and show itself. Maybe they haven't gotten the word that you're back on the job.

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  19. More power to you!!! You should be tired!! Other than half day, you hit the ground running!! Rest up!!

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  20. I can't believe you are back at work already, that's amazing!

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  21. I've been lost in the Everglades without internet for 5 days and you are already back leading hikes. AMAZING!! You are really something! I'm sure worried less about a hip replacement should I ever need one thanks to you.

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  22. Half days are a good way to go for awhile and soon you'll be back to your previous pace. :)

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  23. An incredible recovery, keep up the good work

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  24. I never cease to be amazed by the healing of the human body..You are doing so great, and I am sure your spunk and determination has something to do with it...Maybe it was the kind and loving hand of "Nurse Ratchet"???..My scar is healing well too...I'll post some pics when I have time..

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  25. I second everyone else-you are amazing. I can't believe you are hiking already. Good for you! I'm so glad your recovery is going well.

    Thanks for stopping by my blog yesterday. I think you are the only person, beside my parents, who reads it. :-) I even went out today and looked for some birds. We might go to Anahuac soon. I desperately want to see some roseate spoonbills but I think it might be too early.

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  26. That sounds like a "Trial by Fire" first day back, and you passed with flying colors! Good for you!!

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